Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup is a delicious and hearty soup that combines the earthy flavor of celeriac (also known as celery root) with the sweet, tangy crispness of apples. This dish is a perfect example of how simple, seasonal ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and satisfying. The Hairy Bikers, a popular British duo known for their cooking shows and easy-to-follow recipes, bring their signature flair to this classic soup.

Celeriac, with its slightly nutty and mild flavor, forms the base of the soup, while apples add a natural sweetness that balances the soup’s earthiness. The combination is elevated with a few extra ingredients such as onions, garlic, and stock, creating a smooth and creamy texture that warms you up from the inside out. It’s a great choice for cooler months, offering a nutritious, filling, and wonderfully fragrant bowl of comfort.

Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Celeriac (Celery Root) – 1 medium-sized celeriac, peeled and chopped. This provides the soup with its earthy, slightly nutty base.
2. Apple – 1 large apple (such as a Bramley or Granny Smith). Apples add a touch of sweetness and tang that contrasts beautifully with the celeriac.
3. Onion – 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped. The onion adds a savory depth to the soup.
4. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced. Garlic brings a wonderful aromatic element to the soup.
5. Vegetable Stock – 750 ml (around 3 cups). This forms the liquid base for the soup, and you can use either store-bought or homemade vegetable stock.
6. Butter or Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon for sautéing the vegetables, which enhances the flavors.
7. Thyme – A few sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme) to infuse the soup with a herby fragrance.
8. Salt and Pepper – To taste. These basic seasonings are essential to balance and bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
9. Cream (Optional) – A splash of cream at the end, to make the soup richer and creamier, but this is entirely optional depending on your preference.

Equipment Needed

To prepare this delightful soup, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

1. Large Pot or Dutch Oven – A wide, heavy-bottomed pot to cook the soup in, providing plenty of space for the vegetables to sauté and simmer.
2. Sharp Knife and Chopping Board – For chopping the celeriac, apple, onion, and garlic into small, manageable pieces.
3. Wooden Spoon – To stir the vegetables as they cook and to prevent them from sticking to the pot.
4. Blender or Hand Blender – To blend the soup into a smooth, creamy consistency. A hand blender (immersion blender) is great for blending directly in the pot, but a stand blender will also work if you prefer to blend the soup in batches.
5. Measuring Jug – To measure out your vegetable stock and cream (if using).

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup

1. Prep The Ingredients

   Begin by peeling and chopping the celeriac into small chunks. Apples should be peeled, cored, and chopped as well. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Cook The Vegetables

   In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent.

3. Add The Celeriac And Apple

   Stir in the celeriac and apple chunks. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, allowing the fruits and vegetables to soften and start to caramelize slightly.

4. Add The Stock And Herbs

   Pour in the vegetable stock and add the thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the celeriac is tender.

5. Blend The Soup

   Once the vegetables are fully cooked and tender, remove the thyme sprigs. Using a blender or hand blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. You may want to add a bit of extra stock if the soup is too thick for your liking.

6. Season And Add Cream

   Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re using cream, add a splash now and stir it in for a richer texture.

7. Serve

   Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with a little extra thyme or a drizzle of cream if desired. Enjoy the comforting warmth of your homemade celeriac and apple soup!

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Texture Variations: For a chunkier soup, you can blend only half of the soup and leave the rest in pieces. This will create a more textured experience without losing the creaminess.
• Flavor Boosters: Add a touch of grated nutmeg or a dash of cinnamon for added warmth and depth. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors.
• Make Ahead: This soup keeps wonderfully for a few days in the fridge, and the flavors tend to deepen after resting. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months, so it’s perfect for meal prep.
• Vegan Option: To make this soup vegan, simply replace the butter with olive oil and skip the cream, or use a plant-based cream alternative.
• Herbs: While thyme is used in the recipe, feel free to experiment with rosemary or sage for a slightly different flavor profile.

Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup is a warm, comforting dish that beautifully combines the earthy, nutty flavor of celeriac with the bright sweetness of apples. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences, whether you prefer a vegan version or a creamy, rich bowl of soup. With its creamy texture, fragrant aromas, and simple, healthy ingredients, it’s the perfect dish for chilly days or when you need a comforting meal.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is an excellent choice to add to your soup repertoire, offering a nourishing and satisfying meal that will leave you coming back for more.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup is a wonderfully comforting dish, blending the earthy richness of celeriac with the natural sweetness of apples. While the recipe itself is already delightful, there are plenty of ways you can add your own twist to make the soup even more unique. Below are some simple variations you can try to elevate the flavors or introduce new textures:

1. Herb Infusion

Adding a fresh herb infusion can give the soup a fragrant depth. Consider infusing the broth with rosemary or thyme while cooking the celeriac and apples.

These herbs pair well with the earthiness of celeriac and will elevate the flavor profile. For an extra twist, try adding a bay leaf or a touch of sage to introduce a more aromatic experience.

2. Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or fresh ginger to the base of the soup. This will complement the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the celeriac. Ginger particularly works well, adding a gentle warmth that isn’t overpowering.

3. Creaminess Variation

The Hairy Bikers’ recipe often uses cream to add richness. For a different texture, swap the cream with coconut milk for a vegan-friendly alternative that introduces a subtle tropical flavor. Alternatively, adding a dollop of crème fraîche just before serving will give the soup a slightly tangy finish that complements the apples beautifully.

4. Roasted Vegetables

A great way to deepen the flavor of the soup is by roasting the celeriac and apples before adding them to the pot. Roasting caramelizes the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness, and adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.

5. Topping Innovations

Instead of the classic croutons, try crispy bacon bits or fried shallots on top for added texture and flavor. You could even sprinkle some roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can also add a fresh finish, enhancing both the flavor and the presentation.

6. Vegan Or Plant-Based Adjustments

If you prefer a plant-based version, simply swap out the butter for olive oil or plant-based butter. To make it even heartier, you can add some lentils or beans to the soup, creating a more filling and nutritious version while still maintaining the lovely balance of celeriac and apple.

By experimenting with these variations, you can create a more personalized version of Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup that suits your tastes perfectly.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

After enjoying a warm bowl of celeriac and apple soup, it’s likely you’ll have some leftovers to store. Proper storage ensures that the soup stays fresh and delicious for a longer period.

1. Cooling The Soup

Before storing any leftovers, make sure the soup is fully cooled. Hot food can lead to condensation in your storage containers, which can promote bacterial growth. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature for safety before moving to the next step.

2. Refrigerating Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer the soup into airtight containers. Glass jars or plastic containers with secure lids work best.

When stored in the refrigerator, the soup will last for about 3 to 4 days. Always be sure to label your container with the date it was made, so you can easily keep track of its freshness.

3. Freezing For Longer Storage

If you want to keep the soup for an extended period, freezing is the best option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.

Make sure to leave a little room at the top of the container as the soup may expand as it freezes. The soup can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To prevent freezer burn, you can wrap the container in a layer of plastic wrap before sealing it in the bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove.

4. Reheating Tips

When reheating, always heat the soup thoroughly to a boil. This ensures that any bacteria that might have formed during storage is eliminated. If the soup has thickened too much after storing, you can easily add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

By following these simple storage tips, you’ll keep your leftover celeriac and apple soup fresh and ready to enjoy at any time!

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup?

Celeriac and apple soup is both a hearty and flavorful dish, making it the perfect starting point for a cozy meal. While the soup itself is satisfying, pairing it with complementary sides can create a more well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas on what to serve alongside your soup:

1. Crusty Bread

Nothing beats a warm, crusty bread to dip into a creamy soup. A freshly baked baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta works wonderfully to soak up the flavorful broth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own garlic butter to spread on the bread before serving.

2. Cheese Pairing

A mild cheese like goat cheese or brie adds a wonderful creamy texture to balance the slight sweetness of the apples in the soup. You could crumble the cheese on top of the soup just before serving or serve it on the side with crackers for a delightful contrast.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Pairing the soup with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash, would complement the earthy tones of the celeriac and apple soup. The caramelized sweetness of roasted veggies works wonderfully with the soup’s flavors.

4. Salad With Fresh Greens

A simple salad with peppery arugula, spinach, or mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. You can add roasted nuts, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the soup.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

For a more indulgent option, a classic grilled cheese sandwich pairs beautifully with the soup. The gooey, melty cheese and crispy bread make for the perfect accompaniment to the smooth texture of the celeriac and apple soup.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup is a dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for a warming, comforting meal. Whether you enjoy it as is or experiment with one of the many variations mentioned, the soup is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Additionally, proper storage techniques ensure you can enjoy your leftovers for days to come, and when paired with complementary sides, it transforms into a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

So, next time you whip up this delicious soup, don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings, sides, and flavor enhancements. Enjoy the experience of cooking, savoring, and sharing!

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In The Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup Recipe?

The key ingredients for the Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup are celeriac (celery root), apples (typically Bramley apples), onion, garlic, vegetable stock, butter, and seasoning. The soup also calls for a bit of cream to give it a smooth, velvety texture.

Can I Make The Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup Vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make the Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup vegetarian. Simply substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to maintain the vegetarian nature of the soup.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare And Cook The Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac And Apple Soup?

The preparation time for the Hairy Bikers’ Celeriac and Apple Soup is approximately 15-20 minutes. Cooking time is around 40-45 minutes, so the total time to make this soup is about 1 hour. The soup is then blended to a smooth consistency and served hot.